What did the two separate lists of priests and Levites (vv1-7− returning earlier with Zerubbabel in 538 BC and vv8-21− returning during Nehemiah’s governorship) have in common? What does that say about God’s faithfulness and human loyalty across two generations?

Ask God to help us respond to Him not only with words but also with deeds. Pray that Christian people may show genuine love and care to those around them so that Christ’s gospel will continue to transform societies.

What does the list of residents (vv3-24) say about the administrative abilities of Nehemiah?

Pray for the continual faithful preaching of God’s word and for open hearts as we prepare ourselves for the Lord’s Day tomorrow.

Why do you think the people were so reluctant to settle in Jerusalem? Why did Nehemiah and the other leaders deem it necessary to re-populate the \”holy city\”?

Pray for a good turnout for the movie outreach tomorrow evening, especially for the fathers who have been invited. Pray that God’s word will convict.

What had neglecting God’s house taught them in the past (13:11; Hag 1:4-11)?

Pray for the Sunday School team going up tomorrow evening to Joyful Grace Presbyterian Church, Pontian, for the evangelistic day-camp on Saturday. Pray also for the 120 campers as the word is being proclaimed amongst them.

How did the Israelites’ stewardship compare to our stewardship in church today? Have you been robbing God? (Mal 3:8-12).

Thank God for the commitment of each and everyone who serves under worship for the weekly Sunday services − worship leaders, preacher, choir, organist, greeters, ushers, Scripture readers, the AV team and floral ministry.

How did the Jews demonstrate that they were good stewards?

Give thanks for the good sign-up for Church Camp 2012 and continue to pray for Dcn Lawrence Tan and the camp committee as they finalised the details.

Was Nehemiah prescribing tighter or more lenient restrictions than the Law required? Why might that be?

Continue to intercede for God’s leading as the congregation prepares to elect the Senior Minister, elder and deacons on Sunday 27 May.

If you were to write a prayer patterned after vv5-37, what benchmarks or signposts of God’s grace would you include?

Pray as we prepare ourselves for the Lord’s Day that we may seek God’s glory solely and let Christ be the centre of all our worship and His gospel in all our activities.

How did God respond in His grace towards Israel’s constant disobedience?

Pray for all Christian parents as they face the task of bringing up children in the fear and nurture of the Lord.

What do you see in Israel’s constant disobedience and God’s grace in your relationship with Him?

Commit to God the EFL classes that through language-learning, people may be led to discover His love for them and put their trust in Him.